the prices of public transportation in state service throughout Spain have already been halved in response to rapidly rising energy rates and inflation. Now, the government has announced more discounts, only 100%.
From September onwards, passengers will be able to travel in several trains operated by the public Renfe network for absolutely nothing.
The Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sanchez announced that tickets for trains operated by the public services of the Cercanías, Rodalies and Media Distance network (equivalent to local and medium-distance travel) will be free from September 1st until the end of the year.
The measure excludes single-trip tickets, or long-distance trips, according to public broadcaster TVE. Multi-trip tickets include a minimum of 10 round trips.
Saving money and caring for the environment
“This measure encourages the maximum use of this type of collective public transport to ensure the necessary daily commute with a safe, reliable, comfortable, economical and sustainable means of transport, amid the extraordinary circumstances of the constant increase in energy and fuel prices. ,” the Spanish Transport Ministry said in a statement.
The Renfe scheme was announced shortly after the Spanish government committed to a 50% reduction in public transport fees in the state system.
Spain is not the only European country that has taken steps to reduce public transport costs.
Last month, Germany launched an unlimited €9 monthly public transport ticket, which can be used on local and regional transport across the country.
The deal, part of a government energy relief package, is scheduled to run through the end of August.
At the end of 2021, Austria introduced a discounted “climate ticket” valid on all means of public transport in the country, with the aim of encouraging people to leave their cars at home.
Klimaticket costs just $1,267 (€1,095) a year, which equates to about $3.50 a day.
Source: CNN Brasil
